caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella parapertussis
it is an infectious bacteria
Effects of the disease?
some effects of Pertussis include: coughing ending in a "whoop" noise, a runny nose, slight fever, diarrhea, short loss of consiousness, choking spells, and vomiting.
How to treat Pertussis?
the treatments are: antibiotics including Erythromycin, fluids given through a vein, and also sedatives may be given to young children. *Cough mixtures, expectorants, and supressants are usually not helpful and should be avoided.
How is this disease spread?
Pertussis is transmitted when an infected person sneezes or coughs, tiny droplet containing the bacteria move through the air. This disease is easily spread through person to person, and usually lasts up to 6 weeks.
Who is vulnerable?
it was most common in young children and infants before vaccinations, but now it is more common in adolescents and adults.
How is it preventable?
This disease is preventable if you get the DTAP vaccination, which is a recommended childhood immunization. Also, if a person has Pertussis, they should be isolated until they are well to prevent an outbreak of the disease
How is it caused?
Effects of the disease?
How to treat Pertussis?
How is this disease spread?
Who is vulnerable?
How is it preventable?
(Above) Vaccinations are recommended
References:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/bacterial_viral/whooping_cough.html
http://bodyandhealth.canada.com/channel_condition_info_details.asp?disease_id=217&channel_id=1020&relation_id=70907